Kryj

Kryj is the second-person singular imperative form of the Polish verb kryć, meaning to hide or to cover. As an imperative, kryj is used to issue a direct command to someone to take cover or conceal themselves. In reflexive constructions the common form is kryj się, meaning hide yourself. Since kryć is imperfective, kryj can convey an immediate or ongoing directive to begin hiding.

Etymology and forms: Kryj derives from the Polish verb kryć, which belongs to the Slavic family of verbs meaning to hide, cover, or shield. The imperative forms for this verb include kryj (you hide) and kryjcie (you all hide), with kryj się and kryjcie się used for reflexive forms. The verb is considered imperfective, indicating a process rather than a completed action, which affects nuance in imperative usage.

Usage notes: Kryj is primarily found in direct speech, dialogues, or narrative commands. It is typically used in informal or familiar contexts. In polite or formal registers, speakers may choose alternative constructions, such as proszę się ukryć or proszę się schować, depending on tone and context. Kryj may appear in historical texts, fiction, or instructional scenarios where concise commands are presented.

Examples:

- Kryj się za tym murem — Hide behind that wall.

- Kryj się teraz, nadciąga patrol — Hide now, a patrol is coming.

- He said: Kryj za drzewem — Hide behind a tree.

See also: kryć, ukrywać, schować, chować.